The regional specialty of Ostend: the shrimp croquette
The scent of the sea, the clatter of the nets, and the salty wind blowing across the harbor… Ostend and shrimp have been inseparable for centuries. What began as the hard work of brave fishermen, pulling their nets into the water with horses, has grown into one of the most cherished culinary traditions of our coast. Read all about our national pride, the shrimp croquette!
Did you know… the Ostend shrimp croquette is recognized as a Flemish regional product?
The Ostend shrimp croquette has been recognized as Edible Heritage by VLAM, the Flemish Centre for Agro- and Fisheries Marketing. The croquette is made with hand-peeled shrimp caught by Ostend fishermen. The filling must contain at least 30% shrimp and be prepared within a 10-kilometer radius of Ostend.
Shrimp Croquette Festival
Every October, Ostend becomes a haven for food lovers and fans of the salty taste of North Sea shrimp. The Shrimp Croquette Festival brings the rich tradition of the Ostend shrimp to life. This year, the fifth edition took place from October 11 to 13, 2025, at the atmospheric ACEG Wellington Hippodrome.
Visitors could taste the most artisanal shrimp croquettes and vote for their favorite. This year, restaurant North won the public’s choice award again, while the professional jury, led by Michelin-starred chef Martijn Defauw, selected Mac Moules, Cultuurcafé De Grote Post, and ’t Zeezotje as the top 3 of 2025. Coincidentally, these are also our team’s favorites!
Good news for everyone who wants to attend next year: the 2026 edition is already scheduled for October 10, 11, and 12. Mark your calendars and act fast, as tickets often sell out quickly!
